What should you know about tonic clonic seizure what to do?

The person may suddenly lose awareness, fall and become stiff before rhythmic jerking begins. They cannot reliably follow instructions during this phase. When movements stop, they may breathe noisily, feel confused or sleep deeply. Stay close, because awareness can return gradually and the person may be frightened or unsteady.

Guide the person away from traffic, stairs, water, flames and sharp furniture if you can do so safely. Cushion the head, remove glasses, loosen tight neckwear and note the start time. Do not restrain them, move them unnecessarily, place fingers or objects in the mouth, or give food, drink or tablets during unconsciousness. After the jerking ends, turn them onto their side and check breathing.

Call emergency services if the seizure lasts five minutes or longer, starts again before the person recovers, causes a serious injury, affects breathing, happens in water, or occurs during pregnancy. Call urgently for a first seizure, fever with a stiff neck, severe headache or confusion that continues after recovery should have begun.

Record the sequence, duration and recovery, including any warning symptoms or injury. Ask a clinician whether an assessment is needed, how to make a personal seizure plan, and whether family members should learn a prescribed rescue-medication procedure.